PROTAC Linker

The PROTAC linker connects two moieties: a small peptide residue for E3 ubiquitin ligase recognition,and a ligand that can be recognized by a targeted protein.

Unlike the small molecule ligands, the length of the linker has been randomly selected for PROTACs, varying from 12-carbon to over 20-carbon in length. An optimal linker will allow for maximal interaction between the two moieties (target protein and E3 ligase) resulting in efficient ubiquitination of the target protein and its ultimate degradation.